Alamo, CA – Hall of Famer Gary Payton brought star power to Round Hill Country Club today as he hosted his second annual Golf Tournament. Launched just two years ago, the Payton Foundation is already making an impact, empowering student-athletes to reach their full potential through education, mentorship, and athletic support. With a mission to foster personal growth, leadership, and academic success, Payton is using his platform to inspire the next generation on and off the court.
Payton spoke about his commitment to helping kids in need, emphasizing the importance of providing guidance and setting a positive example. Payton is currently the head coach at the College of Alameda. He began his college coaching career at Lincoln University from 2021 to 2024 and previously led a Big 3 team to a championship, earning Coach of the Year honors.
Payton’s annual golf tournament brought out a star-studded guest list, including Hall of Famer George Gervin, actor Danny Glover, former NBA star Shawn Kemp, Clippers assistant coach Brian Shaw, former NBA executive Rod Higgins, and former MLB pitchers Tyson Ross and Sergio Romo, among many others.
The golf tournament was a major success, donations poured in as Payton recognized key sponsors who helped make the event possible. He gave special thanks to Starter Brand, who Payton partnered with when he coached in the Big 3. Starter has aslo agreed to sponsoring his team and the league with new apparel.
Known for its iconic ’90s sports apparel, Starter is experiencing a major comeback fueled by strategic collaborations and a renewed focus on quality products. Partnering with Payton and the College of Alameda is part of the brand’s push to build new relationships and expand its presence in the sports world.
Other sponsors included Marquis Charters, Whittier Trust, and United Healthcare, among others. Payton also provided entertainment and promoted various businesses at different tee stations throughout the course. While participants focused on getting the ball in the hole, they enjoyed a variety of delicious food along the way.
Actor Danny Glover hosted a booth at Hole 1, featuring his Honey Kiss Sauce served over shrimp and steak bites, accompanied by vegan, steak, and chicken rolls. Other vendors included D2O Detox Water, an all-natural energy drink free of heavy metals and microplastics. Robbie’s Ocean Fresh Seafood from Monterey, CA, also drew a crowd with its oyster bar, serving oysters topped with a special caviar sauce.
Payton also had a few of his players help oversee the entertainment, which included a game challenging participants to make as many basketball shots as possible in 30 seconds. Two standout freshmen, Lucas Boze (guard) and Kot Manyiel (forward), who are looking to add excitement to the roster this season, demonstrated the proper form needed to make the shots.
For information on the College of Alameda’s upcoming basketball season, including games and times. The season kicks off in early November. Check out the link: https://alameda.edu/athletics/mens-basketball-schedule/.
